This is the year you're going to make your marathon debut. These 10 races will ensure your first 26.2 is special—and worth repeating.

Stay CloseTravel is fun, but it adds stress: Did I pack my socks? How do I set this alarm? Running close to home lets you train on the course, stay in your own time zone, and sleep in your own bed.

...Or Go FarYou can always do your local race, but your first warrants going all-out. Find a race that doubles as a great weekend getaway and make it an extended experience.

Time It RightNearly 100 marathons are held in the United States in October and November for a very good reason: Cool weather is ideal for racing. But you also need to factor in when you'll be training. If you struggle in the heat, 18-milers in August might not work. Consider your schedule: If you're a teacher with time to train in the summer, an early September race could be perfect.

Check the ProfileDoes a flat course make you feel more confident about finishing? Or would you rather tackle a few climbs if it means stunning scenery? Know your preference, check out the course's elevation chart, and train for the terrain you'll face.

Choose Your CrowdBig events have lots of spectator support, and their cheers can help push you. But only if you thrive off the mania. Smaller races offer a mellower atmosphere.

MY FIRST TIMEIcons remember their marathon debuts

Amby Burfoot1968 Boston Marathon winner"Boston in 1965. At the start in Hopkinton light snow was melting off rooftops. When we hit Framingham, I passed a mile marker that said 19 7/8 miles, weird fraction, but more to the point: I had never run that far in my life. In Newton, I called out to spectators. 'How far to Heartbreak Hill?' One said: 'You just went over it.' I finished euphoric."

Bart YassoRW's Chief Running Officer"In 1983, I ran the Prevention Marathon in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. A man on a bike rode by at mile 23 and said, 'These last miles will be the longest of your life.' He was wrong. They were among the happiest because I knew I'd finish."

Kathrine SwitzerFirst woman to officially enter and run Boston"During Boston in 1967, I grew up. I started as a nervous girl, then two miles into the race, the director grabbed me. I was a female running his male-only race. I thought it was a bad dream. I finished feeling like I'd left my childhood on the streets and had become a woman full of resolve."

Deena Kastor2004 Olympic Marathon bronze medalist"Word among running circles was that the 2001 New York City Marathon might not take place because of September 11. While 40,000 runners awaited the start, the national anthem played. That was one of the most proud and patriotic moments of my career. The race was as fulfilling as any I've ever known."

Bill RodgersFour-time champ of the Boston and New York City marathons"In Boston 1973, I thought I was in good shape, but I didn't know how to pace. I made it to the top of Heartbreak Hill, then dropped out. I was demoralized. My next race, a friend paced me for 16 miles, then I ran harder for the last 10. It was a more careful strategy. It worked; I won."

Kara Goucher2008 Olympian, placed third at her first marathon—New York City in 2008"I couldn't believe how painful the last 10-K was. I was looking for a place to drop out. The crowds were deep, so there was nowhere to step off. Thank goodness! It was my greatest physical accomplishment."